If you've changed more than 5 jobs in the last 10 years, you're going to be classified as a job-hopper. But then, you already know that, and perhaps that is why you are here, keen to know how you're going to create a resume that's going to downplay your frequent job-changing.
Whether the reasons for your job-hopping were in your control or not, let's face it – job-hoppers aren't looked upon too kindly by prospective employers. They get stacks of resumes every day and they are always looking to reject a candidate for some reason or the other. And if they think that you are someone who changes jobs too frequently, then you are out.
But why this attitude against job-hoppers? The general assumptions are:
- They are probably bad workers, and don't last too long in one place
- They probably have personality issues that lead to conflicts, and perhaps that is why they are forced to move frequently.
- Perhaps they are too restless and fickle
- Perhaps they are trying to steal trade secrets
Hiring, recruiting and training is an expensive and time-consuming affair, and employers would definitely notwant to go through the entire process again a few months later. That is why they tend to reject people who they think might quit soon, like they did in their earlier jobs.
Never fear. There are ways to create a resume that will make you look good.
1) Emphasize your skills and accomplishments on your resume.
A hybrid resume is also useful, where the first part concentrates on your skills, and the second part briefly lists your jobs in chronological order. Decide which would be better, based on your circumstances.
The first half of the first page must contain all your accomplishments, and a summary of your achievements and skills, so that before the employer notices that you have changed too many jobs, he should have already judged you on your merit and potential, and be impressed by your candidature.
2) Group similar jobs together.
If some of your jobs have been similar – like contract-based work, or freelance work, bunch those together under one heading. That way, it won't look like you have a long list of jobs.
3) Leave out jobs that aren't relevant.
If you have worked at some jobs that were of a different field, or in a different industry, you could consider leaving those out. You could also omit those jobs that were far too short in tenure, or not that important in your career. But be careful. If it comes up in background checks, then you will have some explaining to do. So you must use your discretion.
4) Use only years when indicating the duration of your jobs.
If you worked at a place from Dec 2012 to April 2013, putting it as 2012 to 2013 makes it looks like a longer period.
5) Indicate on the resume if the reason for your quitting a job was for reasons not in your control.
Though you are generally not expected to mention the reason for your leaving in the resume, if you had to leave because of a merger or an acquisition, it makes sense to indicate that on your resume.
6) Include an impressive cover letter.
A great cover letter, that introduces your candidature and focuses on your positives, while, perhaps explaining your job-hopping, will aid your candidature greatly.
The only hurdle you have is to portray your potential through your resume. The moment you land an interview, you can take control, and do all that you can to convince them that they'll do good by hiring you. By using these suggestions, your resume will definitely do your work for you effectively.
Remember, if you don't focus on your job-hopping, chances are that the employer won't either.
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